SEPTEMBER
2024
MALAGA
PRACTICAL GUIDE
Prepare and enjoy your stay in Malaga
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On behalf of ESSCA, the International Relations Office
would like to welcome you to the International Exchange
Programme. If you decide to join the programme, you will
become a part of our expanding student community.
ESSCA welcomes more than 800 International students
from over 50 different countries – so you are guaranteed
to have a truly international experience!
By studying at ESSCA you will become a part of one of
the most prestigious post BAC business schools in the
country which is accredited by the French Ministry for
Education and by three international accreditation
agencies, EFMD, AACSB and AMBA.
We have created this Practical Guide to help our
International Students to get prepared for their exchange
experience ahead with us.
Muriel JACQUELIN
International Relations Director
Welcome to ESSCA,
School of Management!
3
Studying at ESSCA ................................................... P. 4
• Orientation Days
Welcome to Malaga ................................................... P. 5
• The city
• Tourism
• Social Life in Malaga
• The Mediterranean weather
Visas and Insurance .................................................. P.7
• The required documents
• Student Spanish Visa
• Long Stay Visa Process
• Travel Insurance
Health and Doctors ................................................... P. 8
• Personal Health
• Doctors
• Health Insurance
• Refunds on Health Costs
Arrivals from airports ............................................. P. 10
• To the city center in taxi
• By the underground metro
• The express line A
Getting Around Malaga .......................................... P. 11
• Metro & Train
• Bus
• Combined Card
• Bikes- Malaga Bici
• Spain: Daytrips
Getting Around Spain and Europe……………… ..... P.13
• Trains
• Coaches
• Low-cost airlines
• Hire a car
Staying in Malaga .................................................... P. 14
• Accommodation
• Opening a Bank Account
• Telephones and Internet
• Electricity
• Day to-Day Expenses
• Shop and amenities.
• Restaurant Facilities around ESSCA
• Safety tips
Content
4
Orientation days
Despite their name, the French “Grandes Écoles” are
rather small, and ESSCA is no exception.
It is the opposite of a large anonymous institution. You will
soon discover that it is extremely easy to find your way
around the Malaga campus and you may be surprised at
how quickly everybody gets to know each other.
At the beginning of each semester, ESSCA organises
orientation days which take place on campus. We
recommend that you arrive a week before them to have
enough time to settle into your accommodation and your
new environment.
At ESSCA
Studying
Learn, discover, explore, make friends, gain skills, build an international network!
ESSCA School of Management will use its centenary experience to offer you a top of the top
experience in Malaga!
Moreover, we strongly advise all international students to
attend the orientation sessions before classes begin.
Among the activities organised are course presentations
by the different academic departments, compulsory
course registration, photo sessions for your ESSCA
student card, help with administrative formalities,
guidance on settling into the ESSCA world, etc.
The orientation days are designed to make your transition
into both ESSCA and Malaga easier, so it is essential that
you participate.
You will be provided with all the materials necessary to
make your first few weeks easier such as the bus network
maps, timetables, information on local doctors and
hospitals, and all your login details to the ESSCA
information systems.
The orientation days also give students the chance to
meet ESSCA staff and other international students.
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The City
The “warm city of Malaga”, one of the most well-known
cities in Andalucia. Rich in cultural heritage and
surrounded by beautiful beaches. A mix between the
dynamism of a modern city and the charm of historic one.
ESSCA campus located in the city centre next to the
historical centre of the city near multiple cultural activites.
Such as the Picasso Museum
Tourism
Remember that although you will be coming to study, you
will also be staying in a vibrant and beautiful city. So, don’t
forget to explore! Below are a few ideas to get you started.
Numerous cultural attractions are free on Sunday’s
afternoon/evening. For example, Picasso Museum,
Centre Pompidou, The Cathedral of Malaga or the
Alcazaba and the Gibralfaro Castle. Many others activity
like viewpoints, beaches, parks, of course free, can be
found around the city. If you are not an EU student, show
your ESSCA student card or even your home university
student card. The person at the window might give you a
discount. If you happen to visit a place which isn’t free.
The city holds many museums about many areas. We
invite you to visit the following website by clicking here.
At the tourist office, you will find all the information you
need about Malaga and the surrounding area, hotels,
restaurants, festivals, cultural events and interesting
places to visit during your stay. The office is located at
Place de la Marina, 11, Distrito Centro, 29001 Málaga,
Spain, Opening hours: everyday from 9 am to 6pm.
To Malaga
Welcome
Social life in Malaga
Here are the main guides provided by Malaga city or
entertainment-specialized newsletters: Here are the main
guides:
• Malaga tourist office: themed guides such as
cosmopolitan city, Outdoor events, Malaga night
life, cultural Malaga, Musical and Literary…/
• Malaga adve
ntures: Malaga Events, Activities &
Things to Do
• What to do in Mal
aga: our best deals for shows,
theatre, concerts, museums, and nights in
Malaga
• Malaga Eve
nt :
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The Mediterranean weather
One of the key factors that contribute to the charm of
Malaga is its delightful Mediterranean climate. Sunny and
warm, here is an overview of what to expect from Malaga’s
weather throughout the year.
Don’t worry there are not usually strong tornado,
earthquake, or tsunami in Spain.
To Malaga
Welcome
Summer (June to August)
Summer is the peak tourist season in Malaga, thanks to
its warm and sunny Mediterranean climate. Average
temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C, although due to
heatwaves, temperatures could rise to around 37°C. Be
prepared for hot and dry weather, so pack lightweight
clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. The city's
beaches become popular destinations for sunbathing and
swimming, and evenings are perfect for exploring the city's
vibrant nightlife.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn offers a pleasant transition from the heat of
summer to the cooler months. Temperatures range from
18°C to 25°C. The weather remains enjoyable for outdoor
activities, and the crowds of tourists start to thin out. Bring
a mix of light and slightly warmer clothing, as well as a light
jacket for cooler evenings. The fall foliage in the
surrounding areas adds a touch of natural beauty to your
sightseeing adventures.
Winter (December to February)
Malaga's winters are mild compared to many other
destinations, with average temperatures that range from
10°C to 17°C. While it might not be beach weather, you
can still explore the city's attractions comfortably. Layering
is key during this season, so pack sweaters, a coat, and a
waterproof jacket. Don't miss the festive atmosphere
during Christmas and the New Year, when the city is
adorned with lights and decorations.
Spring (March to May)
Spring in Malaga is a wonderful time to explore the city.
Temperatures start to rise, and the city comes to life with
colorful blooms and festivals. Average temperatures
range from 15°C to 22°C. Pack light layers, comfortable
walking shoes, and an umbrella, as occasional showers
are possible. It's an excellent season for sightseeing,
enjoying outdoor activities, and indulging in local cuisine
at outdoor cafes.
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Student Spanish Visas
A tourist visa is not allowed for a study period of over 3
months in Spain. Non-EU students must show the ESSCA
letter of acceptance to apply for a student visa.
You will have to ask for two different things:
- The student visa.
- The authorization to stay in Spain.
The demand has to be made in person. Please contact
the nearest consulate to make an appointment.
Insurance
Visas and
Living and studying in a foreign country can involve a substantial amount of paperwork and
it is the role of the International Office at ESSCA to help you with this.
The required documents.
• The Form « solicitud de visado nacional »,
available on the Consulate webpages
• A valid identity card / passport: no older than 10
years, valid for at least the duration of the stay +
a photocopy
• A photo
• Your acceptance letter + a photocopy
• A proof of your financial means: for 2023,
equivalent to 600€ / month for eachmonth you
will stay in Spain (except if you can prove you
already paid your accommodation for the whole
duration of your stay)
- Last three bank extracts, OR/AND
- Last three payslipts, OR/AND
- Proof of attribution of a scholarship OR/AND
-
Proof of payment for your full tuition fees in
advance
• A health insurance, valid for at least 1 year after
the date you enter the Spanish territory.
• An extract of your judiciary historic on the last 5
years, issued less than 90 days before your
petition for a visa (only visas with a duration of
more than 6 months)
• A health certificate proving that you don’t have
any chronic disease.
• An attestation of housing / renting
• The tax payment
• If you have a legal representative: her/his
passport or ID card + photocopy.
• If you are a minor: the authorization of entering the
Spanish territory alone signed from your parents
or legal representative.
We strongly recommend that you make copies of your
passport, visa, and residence permit and keep them in
a safe place in case you were to lose the original
documents.
Travel insurance
Travel insurance is also strongly advised. Before travelling
to Spain, you must make sure that you are covered while
travelling, should something happen to you or your
belongings.
There are many specialist Insurance companies that can
provide you with insurance best suited for you.
Some countries, such as the UK, offer insurance tailored
to a Study Year Abroad and Exchange students. Cover
may include theft and damage of valuable equipment and
emergency travel expenses - should you get seriously ill
or injured.
The best way to get a better deal is to do your research
carefully, keep your options open and see what type of
insurance is offered in your country.
To avoid any complications, it is a good idea to take
several photocopies of all your important documents.
Long stay visa process
If you stay more than 6 months, your visa is only valid for
90 days. You will have to ask for the Green Card during
the first month of your presence in Spain. You will have
to go to the nearest police station or the nearest
Foreigners’ Office to do the needful. The documents
required are your passport/ID card, the tax payment
justification, and the form that the police officers will give
you.
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Personal Health
Your health and well-being during your stay in Malaga at
ESSCA are important to us! Should you have a medical
condition (e.g. diabetes, high blood pressure, epilepsy...)
which you think might need particular attention, please let
us know prior to your arrival.
This will allow us to stay aware to make the right decisions
or call the right people in case of an emergency. Rest
assured that all information exchanged in our offices or
over the phone will remain strictly confidential.
For some of you, this might be the first time you are away
from home for any extended period. You may feel some
homesickness or loneliness. The best thing to do in these
circumstances is to talk to someone about it. Feel free to
come to us if you don’t feel comfortable, we or the student
helpers will gladly cheer you up and hear you out!
Please, also take with you any medical records which may
be of help to a Spanish doctor such as list of vaccinations
and allergies.
Doctors
Health and
Doctors
If you begin feeling ill, many people in Spain will first turn
to their local pharmacist/chemist for advice and an over-
the-counter medical solution. This is much more practical
and quicker than trying to get a doctor’s appointment.
If, however, you absolutely must see a doctor, then we
recommend booking an appointment. To better
understand the health system of Spain, you can refer to
Expatica a platform developed for international which
explain precisely and with many details the functioning of
the health system.
If you need to see a specialist, you will first need in Spain
to contact a generalist doctor Then if he or she thinks that
you need a specialist he or she will set an appointment.
In case of emergency or alarming symptoms, please
call the 061 (medical emergencies)
Or 112 (European emergency number)
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Health Insurance
Health insurance is compulsory for all international
students.
Students coming from the European member countries
must send ESSCA a copy of their European Health
Insurance card - EHIC (or the E111 or E128 documents)
before arrival. These can be obtained either via your
university or your home country’s health service.
Non-EU students must provide a copy of their
international health insurance certificate. Please contact
your home Social Security Agency to know if there is some
kind of agreement in Spain. If so, they will guide you to
know how to register in Spain. If there is no agreement,
please take note that you will have to take your own
private health insurance.
Note that taking a cheap insurance is almost never a good
idea: the most important is that you are well-covered in
case of hospitalization or need of repatriation.
In the meantime, as advised each year, students should
take out a travel insurance covering travelling incidents
(such as: loss of baggage, etc.) and repatriation.
Doctors
Health and
Refunds on Health Costs
The best way to claim some of the cost back is to obtain
an EHIC (European Health Insurance Card), these should
be free in all European countries, and should help cover
you for 70% of your medical costs. For the other 30% it is
advisable to buy additional health insurance either in your
home country or in Spain.
When visiting the doctor and buying your prescriptions you
should show your EHIC card, you should then be given a
treatment form, that the doctor has filled up, which you can
use to claim some of the cost back.
You can either ask for money back in your home country
upon your return or send the following documents to the
CPAM:
• a copy of your passport
• a bank account number (datos bancarios)
• acquitted bills (+ prescription)
• a copy of your European health card (EHIC card)
For further details, you can also contact the Healthcare line
: 902 505 060
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To the city center in taxis
There are several practical means of getting to Malaga
from the Airport. The taxi for example you can use the local
taxi company Taxi Grande Malaga offering a 24/24h
service from the airport. You can also simulate the trip that
you might ask to the taxi (from the airport to you address)
to see how much that might cost you.
Be careful with the taxi to take an official taxi and not a trap
for tourist.
TIP: Write your final address down on a slip of paper
and hand it to the taxi driver as many drivers speak
only Spanish.
Arrivals
Arriving by plane in Malaga is relatively easy the underground train station is located next
to the arrival area at the terminal 3 of the Malaga Airport and the train journey to the city
center is only 11 minutes.
The express Line A
There is also an express bus line from the airport to the
city center. The express Bus Line A
This bus takes you from Malaga Airport to Malaga City
Centre with 10 stops along the way. The total journey time
is around 15 – 25 minutes depending on the time of day
and traffic. It costs just 3€ and you can pay the driver
direct. There are buses every 15-25 minutes until around
midnight and then at 00:45, 02:00 & 05:05. It now runs 24
hours which is great
Please check times here www.emtmalaga.es. Select
“LÍNEAS Y HORARIOS” and then “LÍNEA EXPRESS
AEROPUERTO”
By Train (Underground Metro)
One of the easiest solutions is to use the underground
train the station is next to the arrival area, the terminal 3 of
the Malaga Airport.
The Metro is here every 20 minutes, and the Train journey
is only 11 minutes to reach the city center for the
affordable price of 1,80 €
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Metro and Train
The metro system in Malaga consists of two lines: L1 and
L2, and a single ticket costs €1,35. If you plan on using the
metro regularly, you can get the rechargeable Malaga
Metro Wallet Card to get cheaper fares (€0,82).
Metro opening hours:
• From Monday to Thursday: 6.30 am – 11pm
• Friday: 6.30 am – 1.30 am.
• Saturday: 7 am – 1.30 am.
• Sunday: 7 am – 11 pm
The main train station in Málaga is called Estación de
Málaga Maria Zambrano, where you can find the lines C1
and C2. You may take the C1 line to get to the airport, and
nearby coastal towns such as Torremolinos,
Benalmadena and Fuengirola. The fares depend on
where you are going, starting at €1,80 for zones 1 and 2,
and up to €3,60 for zone 5. You can purchase single
tickets in the train stations, where you can pay either with
cash or card.
Malaga
Getting around
Getting around is possible by many ways. First the different types of public transport Train,
Metro, buses, and the possibility to link this last 2 with the combined card. You also have in
the city the bike sharing system, Malaga Bici.
Bus
You can buy the tickets inside the bus using cash, or you
can purchase a monthly rechargeable card int he EMT
office, kiosks and Estancos throughout the city, for €19.95.
If you are paying with cash, remember that they do not
usually give change for more than €5
Combined Card
Lastly, if you must make a connection between a bus and
a metro, or if you will use both metros and buses on a
regular basis, you may also purchase a “Tarjeta de
consorcio”. This is a rechargeable card that works for both
transport systems, and it is personalized based on the
number of connections the user most frequently does.
Malaga Bici
The bike sharing system oft he city of Málaga.
If you plan on taking these trains frequently, you can
purchase a reusable ticket for unlimited trips. This system
works by paying a €10 euro deposit, and after making 16
trips or more, you get a refund for your deposit. It is advisable
to pay for this ticket by card, to make the refund process
easier for you.
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Granada:
Located 125km north of Malaga, Granada is a
beautiful city and easy to get to, just by getting a
bus, a train, or even a guided tour. Key sights
include the Alhambra, 'El Albaicín' District and the
Granada Cathedral.
Spain : Daytrips
Getting around
Sevilla:
The journey takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours,
offering scenic views of the Andalusian
countryside along the way. Key sights include
Plaza España, the Royal Alcázar, and historic city
centre.
Nerja:
Start your trip by taking a bus from the city centre.
In less than an hour, you will be greeted by
breathtaking coastal views along the way. Aside
from the beach, key sights include the Balcony of
Europe, the Nerja caves and the old town.
Marbella:
Begin your day by taking a train or bus from
Malaga to Marbella, a journey of approximately 45
minutes to an hour. Enjoy a lunch with beautiful
views and explore the amazing beaches, the
Golden Mile and Paseo Marítimo.
Cordoba:
The journey by train takes approximately one hour,
departing from Malaga Zambrano station. Once
upon arrival, head to the Mezquita-Catedral, take
a stroll through the Patio de los Naranjos and
explore beautiful Jewish Quarter.
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Coaches
There are several low-cost intercity coach services, but we
recommend Eurolines, or FlixBus for their huge network
and low prices. They go everywhere including outside of
the Schengen Area and cost next to nothing. Blablabus is
also recommended.
Low-cost Airlines
From the airports, you will be able to catch regular flights
on Air France / KLM and other carriers both full-fare and
low-cost such as Transavia, or EasyJet, Ryanair and
Vueling.
The latter often will offer tickets at incomparable prices,
but also will changes fares or conditions rather quickly.
The easiest way to travel if you are going to London is to
take the Eurostar; if you are going to Madrid or Barcelona
is to catch a low-cost flight.
Spain & Europe
Getting around
Hiring a Car
Another option is to hire a car especially if you wish to
travel. Many car hire companies have offices near la Part
Dieu train station. Please be aware that with many of these
companies, you must be at least 21 years old and have
held your licence for a minimum of 1 year to be able to rent
a vehicle. Please visit their sites for more information.
A daily surcharge for drivers between the age of 21 and
25 will also apply.
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Accommodation
Renting an apartment in Spain can be a challenge. We
advise you to start looking for accommodation as soon as
you receive your acceptance letter from ESSCA.
If you have any questions you can consult our website, or
contact exchange@essca.fr
Despite those difficulties that you could meet and
represents a break for your experience. Do acknowledge
that there are platforms designed for you, to help you
finding an accommodation for a short period like an
exchange.
You should first take a look at erasmusplay which is a
platform that gather all the possibility of accommodation in
a city that are for a short period such as an Erasmus.
To find an accommodation that have a lot of flexibility on
the time for your exchange you can also try the well-known
platform Airbnb (here designed for a staying of 1
semester)
Malaga
Staying in
NOTE: Beware of scams, never send money to a private
owner. Choose official student residences and the
websites listed. If you want to rent an apartment from a
private individual, take the necessary precautions (ask
for proof of payment and a rental contract).
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Opening a bank account
Even if you have a regular bank account in your home
country, an account with a Spanish bank will facilitate your
payments and reimbursements (healthcare) during your
stay.
To open an account, you will need to provide:
• Your bank details from home
• Your passport
• A proof of your address in Spain
• Your student certificate (which will be provided by
ESSCA)
Banks are generally open from Monday to Friday, 9am to
3pm. Many banks have deposit machines allowing you to
deposit money into your account outside these hours.
Sometimes banks can take time to open your account – to
ensure that you do not run out of money while waiting it is
advisable to take enough money with you in cash for at
least the first month.
NOTE: It is not advisable to be overdrawn, even for a few
days; the charges can be very expensive!
Here are some examples of Spanish Bank:
• Santander
• CaixaBank
• BBVA
Malaga
Staying in
Telephones and Internet
There are numerous phone shops where you can
purchase a mobile phone / sim card / phone contract,
Movistar, Vodafone, Orange or Yoigo, to name a few. You
can either pay a monthly contract or opt for a pay as you
go plan. We advise doing a little research before choosing
as there may be special promotions to take advantage of
during your time here. Remember to read the small print
of any contract and do not sign anything if you are unclear
of the meaning! More information will be provided about
phone services upon your arrival, and the Welcome Team
will be more than happy to assist you.
Another option is to take out a contract with a Spanish
company, allowing you to use your own phone from home.
To do this you need to buy a Spanish SIM card to replace
your existing one. Note that this is not always possible due
to the technical restrictions of certain mobile phones.
However, if you take your phone along with you, the
salesperson should be able to tell you if this option is
possible or not for your mobile.
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Electricity
The Spanish electricity supply works on 220 volts/ 50 hertz
(Hz), so make sure you have the necessary adaptors for
any electrical equipment you bring with you from home.
We recommend that you buy adaptors before you leave
rather than upon arrival. Above all, remember to avoid
overloading sockets with too many plugs.
Malaga
Staying in
Day to day expenses
Is life generally expensive in Spain? Or is it rather cheap?
The answer here depends very much on where you come
from. We estimate a total monthly budget of between
€1000 and €1200 but this will vary depending on your
choice of accommodation (the rent being on average 500
– 600 €). It is worth remembering that during your first few
weeks in Malaga, you will probably find yourself spending
more money than usual as it is necessary to buy public
transport and train passes, pay for insurance etc.
Here’s a rough price guide to give you an idea (prices are
subject to change): for more click here.
• Public transport: €28 (monthly subscription)
• Menu at McDonalds: €8
• Tapas restaurant: € 12
• Cappuccino: €1.85
• A half-pint beer: €3
•
• A cinema tic
ket: €8.40 (take your student card)
• Sport and Fitness: €40 (monthly subscription)
Los Mercados
In Malaga there are open markets for fresh products. You
can find in the markets many products from Spain, Tapas,
Iberico Jamon, Paela and many other specialties from
everywhere in Spain. You can either eat in or take it to go.
One of the main ones is Mercado de la Merced
La Merced, 4, Distrito Centro 29012 Malaga Spain
Open from 8am to 8pm every day except on Sundays
Organic Products
If you are fond of organic products, you will have several
options. Please check Malag organic food market by
clicking here.
In many places student may have good deals and
discounts, do not hesitate to ask. Your student ID may be
asked.
Shops and amenities
Shops in the center of Malaga are generally open from
10am to 2pm and then from 5pm to 9pm. Larger
supermarkets and malls can remain open until 10pm
weekdays. Please be aware that all shops are closed on
Sundays. The few shops that do remain open on Sundays
are likely to close early and be more expensive.
17
Where to eat – Restaurant Facilities around ESSCA
Malaga
Staying in
Casa Lola: affordable, central,
and traditional, enjoy local
Spanish food in one of its five
locations.
Los Mellizos: for traditional paella
and sea food dishes.
100 Montaditos: enjoy tapas for
€1 every Wednesday and
Sunday.
Granier: head to the bakery in
front of the school to get a quick
coffee.
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Safety tips
• Different districts of Malaga are more dangerous than others. By night is highly recommended not to walk alone in the
neighborhood of Palma or Palmilla, Cruz Verde Street and the surrounding. When traveling alone, it’s better to avoid EI
Palo and Trinidad Areas and keep your phone in your pocket.
• Always try to aboard a taxi from a marked taxi stand.
• Try to travel with change and not just notes, it makes it easier to pay for smaller things without taking out notes.
• Never leave your baggage or belongings unattended and arrange your valuables in your bag so that they aren’t
accessible to pickpockets. In and around major tourist sites, the train station, or metro station, men should keep their
wallets in a front pocket and women should make sure that their handbags are always closed.
• Be aware that near tourist areas, people may ask for charity donations. If they are wearing a brightly colored jersey
with a clearly identifiable logo on them, they are probably students like you out getting some professional experience. If
not, they are most certainly beggars.
• Do not leave your phone on a table at an outdoor café, or by night in the street or public transports. This is an open
invitation to theft.
.
Malaga
Staying in
When you are travelling / staying in any large city, you must be aware of security measures
and Malaga is not safer or more dangerous than anywhere else. Below are a few tips that
you should be always aware of. Keep in mind that even in an international city, speaking
other languages and looking ‘un-Spnish may lead to attention.
As proof of identity keep with you a photocopy of
your passport, in your purse or wallet and leave the
original at home. If you want to keep it with you be
aware that only a Spanish police officer or
gendarme has the right to ask you for your official
ID. Do not show it to someone who does not identify
him-/herself clearly—including showing you his/her
official police identification—as one of these
officials. Be especially wary of anyone asking you
for your credit card at the any time. If this happens,
find the nearest uniformed police officer, and ask
him/her for assistance or call 092.
